September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska fights every day to help individuals who are suffering with mental health disorders or having thoughts of suicide.
Paul Greenwell, Therapist and Clinical Supervisor for LFS, says suicide rates were at a 40-year high in 2015.
Greenwell says some of the hardest hit were from the most vulnerable populations including young women, rural communities and veterans.
He says it’s important to learn to recognize the warning signs of someone who may be having suicidal thoughts.
"Just some basic things like a basic change in personality or changes in mood. So if you notice an increase in anxiety, an increase in amount of depression, anything that is really a change from what is normal, those things are always just these little reminders you want to check in with those around you. Could be as simple as saying, ‘Hey, I’ve noticed recently you’ve looked kind of down. Is there anything going on? Is there anything I can do for you?’”
Greenwell says there can also be more serious signs such as the person talking or writing about wanting to die, giving away their possessions or saying goodbye.
In cases where you think your loved one may be in immediate danger, Greenwell recommends calling 911, contacting a mental health professional or calling the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255.
To learn more, the website is LFSneb.org.